Productivity secrets from a global consulting firm leader
How to structure your day and maintain work-life balance in a leadership position
1Leadership journey in consulting
David Hatcher has worked in the consulting industry since the 1990s. After stints at EY and Accenture, he joined Baringa in 2012. Elected managing partner in 2016, he holds CEO-equivalent responsibilities. While his background focused on energy sector, he now prioritizes AI topics. Leads the firm with offices across 16 global cities.
2Morning routine: Movement and discipline
Waking at 6am, Hatcher trains with a personal trainer several mornings weekly. Other days, he takes the 6:50am train to central London, reading Financial Times during commute. Squeezes weekly calls with Australian team into tight time windows. Always stops for Pret a Manger cappuccino before office - his non-negotiable morning ritual.
3Office structure and management strategies
Spending 80% of his day in meetings, Hatcher handles everything from 30-minute catch-ups to half-day strategy sessions. Topics range from company strategy, branding, risks to employee development. Works from office 13 out of 14 days, valuing spontaneous interactions. Only works remotely one day every two weeks.
4Lunchtime productivity hack
Prefers working lunches at his desk with simple meals like sushi or salad. When weather permits, conducts walking meetings in nearby St. James's Park. This serves dual purpose: incorporating movement and clarifying afternoon priorities. Has become his signature productivity strategy on non-rainy London days.
5Energy sector focus and global expansion
Baringa's energy market work centers on transition and decarbonization. Rapidly scaling in US, Asia, Europe and Australia markets. Building brand recognition and attracting top talent in new regions remain key priorities. Climate change impacts have been on their agenda for years.
6Leadership philosophy and team focus
Hatcher considers self-interest over team welfare as biggest obstacle. Lives by philosophy: 'Look after people around you, good things will follow.' Values office time for organic team interactions. Makes client engagement non-negotiable daily priority, whether with prospects or existing clients.
7Evening rituals for work-life balance
Leaves office between 6:30-7pm, watching 'brain-neutral' YouTube videos like physicist Brian Cox's during commute. Attends two work dinners weekly with clients or senior colleagues. Prioritizes family meals or conversations with wife. Strict about 10:30pm bedtime, having learned importance of sleep through past struggles.
8Golden rules for productivity
Three principles from Hatcher's routine: 1) Spread movement throughout day (training, walking meetings), 2) Create space for spontaneous interactions, 3) Maintain work-life boundaries (neutral content, sleep discipline). Proves that even leading global consulting firm requires personal discipline and team focus for success.
Original article: Business Insider — Küresel bir danışmanlık firmasında verimlilik sırları